Himanta Biswa Sarma Unveils Revolutionary Rs 56 Crore Handloom Centre in Bokakhat, Assam: A Proud Moment for Weavers!
On National Handloom Day, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the development of an advanced Integrated Handloom Centre in Bokakhat, projected to cost Rs 56 crore. This center will encompass the entire handloom process — from thread extraction to weaving and coloring fabrics — serving as a prominent platform for Assam’s traditional weavers to display and market their crafts.
The facility will also feature a dedicated marketing complex aimed at attracting both Indian and foreign tourists, particularly those visiting the nearby Kaziranga National Park. Visitors will have the opportunity to observe the intricate weaving processes behind Assam’s traditional garments, such as the iconic Gamosa, which has gained national prominence and is frequently worn by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Assam’s youth.
Chief Minister Sarma underscored Assam’s rich handloom heritage, citing Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev’s creation of the Brindabani Bastra — a massive textile masterpiece woven centuries ago in Tatikuchi, Barpeta.
Additionally, Sarma highlighted the government’s recent measures to support local weavers, mentioning last year’s ban on importing Gamosas from outside Assam. This ban ensures that all Gamosas sold in the state are woven by local artisans. The policy has now been expanded to include other traditional textiles such as Mekhela Sador, Aronai, Aosai, Pohu, and Muksa.
The Assam government has also pledged to purchase unsold Gamosas and other handloom products worth Rs 100 crore, mirroring the procurement process for paddy. This initiative aims to provide economic stability for the state’s weavers, particularly in districts like Golaghat, home to 67,000 weavers expected to benefit from the scheme.
The establishment of the Integrated Handloom Centre signifies a significant boost to Assam’s handloom industry, reinforcing the government’s commitment to preserving and promoting the state’s traditional craftsmanship.
Original Story https://www.indiatodayne.in/assam/story/himanta-biswa-sarma-announces-rs-56-crore-handloom-centre-in-assams-bokakhat-1066277-2024-08-07?utm_source=rssfeed
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